The classic FiDi steakhouse, Delmonico’s, has a rich history dating all the way back to 1837; it’s also known to be the “first fine dining restaurant in the country.”
Sadly, the iconic spot had to close its doors in early 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and since then has undergone a complicated legal battle for ownership.
Now, according to those representing Dennis Turcinovic and his partner Joseph Licul – who signed a new, 15-year lease on the space after the previous one expired on December 31, 2022 – the restaurant will return to its former glory by September 15, 2023.
It has actually been open this summer to groups and private events, and reservations for its official September reopening are already being accepted.
According to the Commercial Observer, Delmonico’s was run by brothers Ferdo and Omer Grgurev as well as their business partners, Milan Licul and Branko Turcinovic. In 2019, the Grgurevs sued Licul and Turcinovic to take over control of the restaurant, and won their case in 2021.
After, the Grgurevs were part of a separate lawsuit with Time Equities (who owns the building) for claims of $300,000 in unpaid rent, which carried on until the Grgurevs’ lease for the restaurant space expired at the end of 2022. This is when Dennis Turcinovic and Joseph Licul signed the new lease on the space, and whose press representative announced the reopening plans. According to The New York Times, “[Dennis Turcinovic and Joseph Licul] were sued by members of the Grgurev family who claimed to be the rightful owners of the restaurant and its name, but their claim was denied by the New York State Supreme Court in May.”
Therefore, the reopening will take place in its original building at 56 Beaver Street, even though it’s not from the longstanding owners. The 186-year old establishment has undergone “an extensive renovation and redesign,” in addition to a new head chef, Chef Edward J. Hong.
“Delmonico’s has always been in the unique position of serving guests from around the world,” shared Hong. “The restaurant is known for its high culinary standards and signature dishes and I’m excited to enrich Delmonico’s dining experience by introducing the option of new global flavors and techniques while also celebrating its classic dishes.”
Under the supervision of Dennis Turcinovic, owner and operator of Delmonico’s Restaurant Group, the restaurant’s new look will feature a modern design that pays homage to its 186-year legacy. Redesigned by European-based design house, WAVE Design Studios, the renovation will include five private dining areas accommodating up to 500 guests.
“Delmonico’s is a restaurant with deep-rooted history. It was the first to use the term restaurant, the first to have a cookbook and the first to serve women sitting at their own table – it is a part of New York City’s restaurant legacy and we are excited to welcome back returning guests but also introduce Delmonico’s to a new generation of New York City diners,” shared Turcinovi
You can make your reservation and learn more about the reopening at theoriginaldelmonicos.com.